FUEL theft has soared by 79 per cent in the last two years as pump prices rocket.
The number of drivers racing off without paying was 1,156 in June 2020 but hit 2,065 in the same month this year — nearly 70 per day.
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But not all police forces provided full details so the true figure is likely to be much higher.
In the same period, the cost of unleaded rose from 105p a litre to 191p.
Experts say the thefts are costing the industry up to £50million.
FairFuelUK said: “A mounting number of drivers are risking criminal records by not paying.”
Gordon Balmer, executive director of the Petrol Retailers Association, added: “We reckon the problem could be nearly double that.
“Some police forces won’t attend if the value is below £100. Many police forces have said they haven’t got the manpower.”
